Celebrating Chhath: A Guide to Offering Arghya Correctly

The Significance of Chhath Festival

The vibrant festival of Chhath has commenced, with many individuals, particularly those residing away from home, engaged in preparations. A key ritual during this celebration is the offering of arghya, which holds significant importance. This festival is often referred to as the grand festival of Bihar, prompting the question: how should one properly perform the arghya offering? Mistakes can easily occur during this sacred act.

Proper Method for Offering Arghya

During the Chhath festival, offering arghya, which includes both water and milk, is essential. It is important to know the correct order of these offerings. According to Pandit Saurabh Mishra, even minor errors can have significant consequences during this festival. He recommends that one should first offer arghya with water, followed by milk. Just as one cleanses with soap, water should be offered after milk. Additionally, he cautions against holding both milk and water simultaneously while making the offering. Devotees should also remember to pray to Lord Bhaskar during this ritual.

Chhath: The Festival of Nature

This festival is called the Festival of Nature.
Chhath is often referred to as the festival of nature due to its reliance on natural elements. Everything involved in the celebration is derived from nature, with no artificial components. This emphasis on purity is paramount, and participants strive to avoid any mistakes during the rituals.

Cultural Significance and Community Spirit

Notably, as Durga Puja concludes, the sounds of Chhath Puja songs fill homes across Bihar. The festival's popularity is such that individuals often travel long distances to return home for the celebrations. It serves as a powerful draw for those working away from the state, with many bringing flowers and other offerings on trains as they journey back to their families.

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